Hodgson has ‘full support’ of the FA over bizarre race row

Football Association chairman Greg Dyke has given his backing to Roy Hodgson over the controversy caused by a bizarre 'monkey' joke he made during half-time of England's win over Poland.

Hodgson has been caught up in a racism row after telling an old joke about a monkey and an astronaut as he attempted to illustrate the importance of right-back Chris Smalling getting the ball to Andros Townsend.

Anti-racism group Kick It Out have called for an investigation into the incident, but the FA insist no players were offended and have offered Hodgson their 'full support'.

“Roy Hodgson is a man of the highest integrity, an honourable man who is doing a great job with the England team," said Dyke. "He has and deserves the full support of The Football Association.

“He has fully explained to us what he said and the point he was making to the players in the dressing room at half-time on Tuesday night. He has also explained the context in which he made his remarks.

“He has made clear there was no intent to say anything inappropriate, and he was certainly not making any comments with any racist connotation. Importantly, he has apologised for any unintended offence that may have been taken.

“Roy has spoken with Andros Townsend and a number of the players since the game and he has been assured there are no problems within the squad whatsoever.

“Additionally The FA has not had a complaint from any squad member or player representative, and we have today talked extensively to the squad. The FA has been assured by the players that there are no problems and they understand the point Roy was making and the context in which he was speaking.

“We will be making no further comment on this story and will now be giving Roy and the team our full support as we prepare for the World Cup in Brazil."